With the chilly weather prevailing, it becomes imperative to shield everyone, especially children, from the potential health hazards associated with the cold.
Newborns, in particular, face heightened risks from birth up to 28 days, making it crucial to address their vulnerability to the cold.
Cold temperatures can lead to issues like hypothermia, posing a significant threat to infants. To mitigate these risks, ensuring that the baby stays warm is paramount.
During the initial 28 days, newborns should exclusively consume breast milk and remain close to their mothers.
This not only provides essential nourishment but also helps in maintaining a comfortable body temperature.
For slightly older children, a nutritious diet comprising easily digestible and warm foods, coupled with appropriate clothing, serves as a protective measure against the cold.
As children grow older, they spend a substantial amount of time at school, underscoring the role schools play alongside parents in safeguarding them from the cold.
Dr. Raju Sedhain, a pediatrician, delves into crucial aspects of child care during cold weather, emphasizing the significance of proper nutrition and suitable clothing.
In an insightful conversation with Pawan Mudbari, Dr. Sedhain sheds light on essential practices to ensure children’s well-being in the winter months.
What kinds of illnesses are prevalent in children during this season?
Newborns are particularly susceptible to cold stemming from a critically low body temperature.
Meanwhile, older children commonly face challenges such as colds, diarrhea, asthma, and seasonal ailments.
Fevers, pneumonia, and other health issues are more likely to afflict children during colder months.
What types of food are recommended for children during chilly weather?
For infants up to 6 months, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended, enhancing their ability to combat various diseases.
Beyond this age, children should be introduced to nutritious foods such as dal, rice, and pudding with a touch of ghee for added nourishment.
It is crucial to avoid allowing children to consume junk or refrigerated foods.
Maintaining warmth is essential for the well-being of infants.
During the first six months, infants should solely rely on breastfeeding while staying close to their mothers.
Older children can benefit from a diet comprising nutritious and easily digestible foods.
Is steaming beneficial for children with colds, and to what extent does it prove effective?
As children grow older, steaming can be considered if they find it comfortable.
While steaming at home with hot water is generally safe, it is advisable to refrain from this practice for younger children.
For children under five experiencing issues like sore throat and nasal congestion, steam from a machine can sometimes be beneficial.
Under what circumstances should a child be brought to the hospital?
If a baby is experiencing a common cold without fever, cough, and is breastfeeding well, there’s typically no cause for panic, as the problem may resolve on its own.
However, if a fever accompanies coughing, the child struggles to breathe, has difficulty sucking milk, or exhibits vomiting, immediate medical attention is warranted.
These symptoms could signal the development of pneumonia, necessitating consultation with a healthcare professional.
Vigilance and timely intervention are key to ensuring a child’s health and well-being during the cold season.
Is it advisable to massage the child with oil?
Avoid the use of thick and harsh mustard oil, especially on a newborn’s soft skin.
Mustard oil, due to its density, tends to linger on the skin, increasing the risk of foreign matter accumulation and subsequent skin infections.
Parents should also opt for gentler, soothing oils suitable for both massaging and application. It’s essential to refrain from using charcoal for heating as the smoke can be harmful to the baby’s eyes.
Instead, utilize a smokeless heater at a normal temperature to ensure the infant’s comfort without compromising their health.
Meanwhile, to keep the baby warm, one has to avoid the common practice of closing windows and doors while burning coal heaters.
This can lead to suffocation risks for both the baby and the mother, elevating the chances of adverse outcomes.
Also one needs to ensure proper ventilation during winters by keeping windows and doors open while using heaters and coal burners.
As children spend a significant amount of time at school compared to their time at home, what measures should the school take to safeguard them from cold weather?
Given that children spend a significant amount of time at school, it becomes crucial for educational institutions to play an active role in preventing the spread of colds.
If a child is unwell, parents should keep them home for a few days, and schools should ensure that younger children have access to sunny rooms or appropriately heated spaces.
Adequate dressing for warmth is equally important, underscoring the pivotal role schools play in protecting children during the cold season.
Could you provide any recommendations for protecting children in cold weather?
Respiratory and stomach problems are more prevalent in children during colder months.
To protect against viral and chronic diarrhea, protecting children from the virus is imperative.
Breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months is highly beneficial.
Mothers should prioritize a nutritious diet, and in the event of a common cold, consultation with a doctor is recommended, particularly if accompanied by cough, shortness of breath, or fever.
Patience and informed decision-making are key in navigating the challenges of cold weather with children.
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